Ohio training program for parents could improve student literacy rates

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about their literacy instruction program for Ohio parents. She also talked about her visit to the Oyler School and the importance of educating voters.

On Sept. 14, members of the Cincinnati Federation of Teachers, Cleveland Teachers Union, Toledo Federation of Teachers and Greenon Federation of Teachers conducted literacy instruction for a select group of parents in each school district. Cropper discussed the types of training provided to parents and its potential impact on improving literacy rates in Ohio. The trainings were developed by members of the American Federation of Teachers and adapted to fit the specific needs of Ohio parents.

On Aug. 30, Cropper joined Ohio Department of Education & Workforce Director Steve Dackin on a visit to the Oyler School in Cincinnati. The Oyler School is a community learning center that boasts partnerships both inside and outside the classroom that focus on the success of the whole child, from birth to college and beyond. Cropper discussed the different partnerships available to students, including a preschool program, health clinics and a workforce development program. She talked about the program's impact on the community and what could be done to scale this type of program across the state.

Finally, Cropper discussed potential threats to he rights of Ohio residents during the November General Election. According to Cropper, Ohioans right to vote, the freedom to make their own medical decisions without government interference and Ohio students’ right to attend a properly funded public school. She also outlined the candidates receiving OFT endorsements in Ohio.

For more from Cropper, please listen to the show above.